Representations of Mothers in the Thai Translation of Chinese Literature My Mother Collects and Sells Garbage

Abstract

This article aims to analyze The Representations of Mothers in the Translated Literature “My Mother Collects and Sells Garbage” by Zhang Haisheng and Li Wei, translated by Sudarat Parinyawuttiichai, and first published in 2008 by V.Print (1991) Co., Ltd. The study employs a descriptive analytical method. The findings reveal six significant representations of mothers: 1) the representation of a woman who values education, 2) the representation of a resilient woman, 3) the representation of a guide for thought and spirit, 4) the representation of a lower-class individual who accepts her way of life, 5) the representation of an inspiration and a life goal setter, and 6) the representation of a single mother. The results of this study indicate that the representations of mothers in this literary work are connected to the social and economic context. Furthermore, they reflect the sacrifice, diligence, and crucial role of mothers in the family. Despite facing hardship, the mother strongly adheres to the values of hard work and her child’s education.